Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease which primarily affects the
respiratory system. Simple skin testing can determine if you have the
antibodies to TB. A negative result means you have not been infected
with TB. If you have a positive TB skin test you have been exposed to
TB and have antibodies in your system.

You will need to have a chest x-ray if you have a positive test to
determine if you have an active infection. If your chest x-ray is
negative you are not contagious, however, the physician may wish to
discuss preventive treatment so that you don't develop active TB from
your exposure. If you have had a positive skin test for TB in the past
the skin test will not be repeated. You will need to have a chest
x-ray to obtain your clearance for school or work.

Many people who were raised out of this country were given BCG
vaccine in the past to prevent tuberculosis. This vaccine is not given
in the United States. Receiving this vaccine can cause the TB test to
be positive.

Several university programs require testing as part of their
entrance requirements and at specific intervals thereafter. The
Student Health Center provides testing routinely.